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- Main ingredients: - 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli preferred) - 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup artichoke hearts (canned or jarred), thoroughly drained and coarsely chopped - Cheese selection: - 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Seasoning essentials: - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - Salt to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Optional garnishes and tweaks: - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional but recommended) Gather these ingredients to create a rich, creamy dish. Each item plays a key role in the flavor and texture of the pasta. The pasta provides a sturdy base, while the spinach and artichokes add freshness. The cheese selection brings creaminess and depth. Garlic and spices elevate the taste. Don't skip the fresh basil; it adds a nice touch. For the full recipe, check the cooking steps to bring this dish to life! Start by filling a large pot with water. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. I like to check it a minute early. You want it al dente, which means firm but not hard. When done, drain the pasta but save about 1/2 cup of the water. It will help later. Garlic is key in this dish. It adds a rich flavor that makes everything better. In the same pot, add olive oil and heat it over medium flame. When the oil shimmers, toss in minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid browning the garlic. You want it fragrant, not burnt. Now it’s time for the cheese! Lower the heat to low and add cream cheese to the pot. Stir continuously. Break it up as it heats until it becomes smooth. This step is crucial for a creamy sauce. Once smooth, add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Stir well until both cheeses melt in. If it’s too thick, drizzle in some reserved pasta water until you reach a creamy consistency. Now add the fresh spinach and artichoke hearts. Gently fold them into the cheese mixture. You may also add red pepper flakes and dried oregano at this point. Stir until the spinach wilts and combines with the cheese. This step balances flavors and adds nutrition. Once your cheese and veggie mix is ready, add the cooked pasta back into the pot. Toss gently to coat the pasta well. Make sure every piece is covered in that creamy sauce. This mixing allows the pasta to soak up all those tasty flavors. Taste your pasta dish and adjust salt levels if needed. Once seasoned, let it rest off the heat for a minute. This resting time helps the sauce thicken a bit. Afterward, dish it out into bowls. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra flavor if you like. Enjoy your rich, cheesy delight! For the full recipe, check out the ingredients and steps above. Cooking pasta can be tricky. Here are two common mistakes to watch out for: - Overcooking pasta: This can ruin your dish. Always check the package for cooking time. Aim for al dente, which means firm to the bite. It helps the pasta hold its shape in the creamy sauce. - Skipping the reserved pasta water: This water is liquid gold. It contains starch that helps thicken your sauce. Always save some before draining the pasta. Choosing the right cheese makes a big difference. Here are my top picks: - Recommended brands and types: Cream cheese is key for smoothness. Use full-fat brands for the best taste. For mozzarella, pick low-moisture types. Grated Parmesan adds a sharp flavor. - Dairy alternatives for a different twist: If you want a vegan option, use cashew cream and nutritional yeast. These can mimic the creaminess and flavor of cheese. Getting the flavors right is vital. Here are my expert tips: - Using fresh vs. canned artichokes: Fresh artichokes offer a bright taste, but they take longer to prepare. Canned artichokes are convenient and save time. Just rinse them well before adding. - Flavor enhancements with additional spices: Don't be shy with spices! A pinch of nutmeg can add warmth. You can also try adding lemon zest for a fresh kick. Experiment and find what you love best. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to guide you through this tasty dish. {{image_4}} You can make Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Pasta lighter. First, try using whole grain or gluten-free pasta. Whole grain adds fiber, while gluten-free options cater to dietary needs. You can also reduce the cheese. This gives you a less rich dish. You still keep the flavor without the heaviness. Cheese is key to this dish's taste. You can swap mozzarella for other cheeses. Try gouda for a smoky flavor or cheddar for sharpness. If you want a vegan option, use vegan cream cheese and a non-dairy mozzarella. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal that fits your diet. Want to boost protein? Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Cook chicken pieces until they are golden before mixing in. For shrimp, add them to the sauté pan until they turn pink. If using tofu, sauté until crispy. Adjust cooking times as needed. This way, your pasta becomes a filling meal. To keep your cheesy spinach artichoke pasta fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to stop moisture and air from getting in. This helps keep the pasta creamy and tasty for up to three days. Make sure to let the pasta cool before sealing it. This way, the heat will not create steam that can turn it soggy. When you reheat the pasta, you want to keep it creamy. The best way is to use the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to the pan. Heat it on low and stir until warm. If you use a microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir in between to keep it from drying out. This method helps maintain its rich flavor and texture. If you want to freeze the pasta, first let it cool down completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top. This allows for expansion. Use it within three months for best flavor. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently on the stovetop to keep it creamy. Avoid freezer burn by sealing it tightly and using it soon. To make this dish gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options. Look for pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. These alternatives cook well and taste good. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. You will enjoy the same creamy sauce with your gluten-free pasta. If your pasta sauce is too thick, don't worry. You can fix it easily. Add a little of the reserved pasta water. Start with a tablespoon and stir well. Keep adding until you reach your desired creamy texture. The water helps to loosen the sauce without losing flavor. Yes, you can make Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce separately for best results. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and combine them. This method keeps your pasta from getting mushy. This pasta pairs well with many side dishes. A simple green salad adds freshness. You can also serve garlic bread for extra flavor. For a heartier option, try steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus. These sides balance the richness of the pasta beautifully. In this post, we explored the steps to make Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Pasta. We covered key ingredients, including pasta, spinach, cheese, and seasoning. I provided clear cooking instructions, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for variations and storage. For a creamy, flavorful dish, focus on quality ingredients. Experiment with different cheeses and protein options for variety. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious meal ahead!

Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Pasta

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Pasta! With a delightful blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and fresh veggies, this easy recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Follow our simple steps to create a dish that's rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. Ready to impress your taste buds? Click through now and explore this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or fusilli preferred)

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup artichoke hearts (canned or jarred), thoroughly drained and coarsely chopped

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Salt to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional but recommended)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Generously salt the water, then add the pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, remembering to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, pour in the olive oil and heat over medium flame. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant but is not browned. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.

      Add Cream Cheese: Lower the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese directly into the pot. Stir continuously, breaking it up as it heats, until it transforms into a smooth and creamy texture.

        Mix in the Cheeses: Slowly incorporate the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses into the cream cheese mixture. Stir well until both cheeses have melted into the sauce. If the mixture feels overly thick, drizzle in a little of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creamy consistency.

          Incorporate Veggies: Gently fold in the fresh spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, red pepper flakes (if using), dried oregano, and black pepper. Continue to stir until the spinach wilts and the ingredients blend together harmoniously.

            Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta back into the pot with the cheese and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce, allowing it to soak up those delicious flavors.

              Season and Serve: Taste your creation and adjust salt levels as necessary. Remove from the heat and let the pasta rest for a minute to thicken slightly.

                Garnish: Dish the creamy pasta into serving bowls, garnishing each with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch, if desired. Enjoy the rich, cheesy delight of this dish!

                  Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4